Technology Updates : Hardware wallet Ledger helps competitor Trezor resolve security vulnerability

Source : 

https://cointelegraph.com/news/trezor-resolves-security-flaw-identified-by-ledger

Apple Intelligence : 

• Security Flaw Discovered: Ledger’s open-source research arm discovered a security vulnerability in Trezor’s Safe 3 and 5 models.

• Vulnerability Details: Cryptographic operations could be performed on the microcontroller, potentially making the devices vulnerable to advanced attacks.

• Patch Implemented: Trezor has patched the vulnerability, addressing the security flaw found by Ledger.

• Trezor Security Issue: Ledger demonstrated a vulnerability in Trezor’s firmware integrity check, allowing attackers to bypass it.

• Trezor’s Response: Trezor confirmed the issue was resolved but didn’t disclose the method used. They also stated that user funds remained safe and no action was required.

• Ledger’s Security Breaches: Ledger has also faced security breaches, including a hacker stealing $484,000 worth of crypto assets in December 2023 and another threat actor publishing the mailing addresses of 270,000 customers in June 2020.

Investing Updates : Big Winners of US Crypto Policy

Source:

https://x.com/cointelegraph/status/1897074747071963168?s=12

BIG WINNERS OF U.S. CRYPTO POLICY: $XRP, $ADA, and $SOL are thriving, with $AVAX awaiting recognition and $SUI, $FIL, $APT, $NEAR, and $MOVE gaining momentum after White House invitations. Meanwhile, $LINK, $LTC, $DOT, and $HBAR are stronger candidates for the strategic reserve than memecoins.

Investing Updates : Trump Tariffs, More Big Tech Earnings, and a Jobs Report: What to Know This Week

URL: https://ttmblog.com/news/2508193130?edition=fundamental&utm_source=news&utm_campaign=2508193130&utm_medium=more_share&platform=iOS&shareID=dbc786c435ccd8ab79ac6b4b4af3a55e&invite=KDXR9K&lang=en_US

DeepSeek:

Summary of Key Events for the Week Ahead (Feb 3–7):

1. Earnings Highlights
- Big Tech & Major Companies: A busy week for Q4 earnings, with 25% of S&P 500 companies reporting. Key names include:  
  - Monday (2/5): Palantir, Tyson Foods.  
  - Tuesday (2/6): AMD, Alphabet (Google), PayPal, PepsiCo, Pfizer, Spotify.  
  - Wednesday (2/7): Arm Holdings, Ford, Qualcomm, Uber, Disney.  
  - Thursday (2/8): Amazon, Eli Lilly, Honeywell, ConocoPhillips.  
  - Friday (2/9): Cboe Global Markets.  

2. Trump Tariffs Take Effect
- New tariffs announced by former President Trump on **Canada, Mexico, and China** go into full force by Tuesday, Feb 6:  
  - 25% duties on Canada and Mexico (linked to fentanyl and migration issues).  
  - 10% tariffs on China.  
  - Market reactions to trade policy shifts will be closely watched.

3. Economic Data Releases
- Jobs Report (Friday, Feb 9):  
  - Expected: +165,000 nonfarm payrolls (vs. +256,000 in Dec).  
  - Unemployment rate forecast to hold at 4.1%.  
- Other Key Data:  
  - JOLTS Report (Tuesday): Job openings expected at 8.02M (Dec).  
  - ISM Manufacturing PMI (Monday): Consensus 49.6 (contraction territory).  
  - ISM Services PMI (Wednesday): Forecast 54.2 (moderate growth).  
  - Consumer Sentiment (Friday): Slight uptick to 71.5 (Feb) from 71.1 (Jan). 

 
Weekly Calendar Snapshot
- Monday: ISM Manufacturing PMI, Clorox, Palantir earnings.  
- Tuesday: JOLTS data, Alphabet, AMD, Pfizer earnings.  
- Wednesday: ADP employment data, ISM Services PMI, Disney, Qualcomm earnings.  
- Thursday: Amazon, Eli Lilly, Honeywell earnings.  
- Friday: Jobs report, Consumer Sentiment, Cboe earnings.  

Focus Areas: Market reactions to tariffs, tech earnings performance, and labor market resilience amid inflation concerns.

Opinion:

Blood in the markets this week after Trump's tariffs. Could be good opportunity to add. I think there's no rush though, should have plenty of chances.

Investing Updates : Revolution On Telegram: Toncoin Becomes The Only Authorized Crypto!

URL: https://www.cointribune.com/en/revolution-on-telegram-toncoin-becomes-the-only-authorized-crypto/

Gemini:

Telegram has decided to make Toncoin the only authorized cryptocurrency for its platform. This means that users will need Toncoin to pay for premium subscriptions, services, advertisements, and even payments for mini-app developers. Telegram is also looking to tokenize digital assets within its ecosystem, such as emojis, stickers, and digital gifts. This move is seen as a way to strengthen TON's presence in the global market and make Toncoin a key player in digital payments.

Some people are disappointed with Telegram's decision to centralize its platform, but others see it as a springboard for the future of Toncoin. Only time will tell how this decision will ultimately impact Telegram and Toncoin.

Opinion:

I've changed some TON previously and is staking on TONkeeper. The news could be bullish for TON. Tbh, I prefer it to be centralised too 🤔. Too many blockchains create a messy micro-managing experience.

Investing Updates: Singapore to become Asia’s next crypto hub with 'risk-adjusted' regulation

URL: https://cointelegraph.com/news/singapore-crypto-licenses-web3-blockchain-leader

Gemini Summarized:

This is a document about Singapore's rise as a crypto hub. It discusses the country's crypto-friendly regulations and the doubling of licenses issued in 2024. Singapore's risk-adjusted approach to crypto regulation and ease of interaction with local banking partners are key factors in its success. The country is home to 1,600 blockchain patents, 2,433 industry-related jobs and 81 crypto exchanges. Singapore issued 13 MPI crypto licenses in 2024, more than twice as many as in 2023. These licenses may further solidify Singapore's status as a global blockchain leader.

Investing Updates: Google’s Willow vs Bitcoin: Are Your Coins Safe?

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olJ7eI_Co7w&list=WL&index=2&t=113s

Investing Updates: Will Trump's New Team Shape the Future of Crypto? An Overview of New Government Members' Stance

URL: https://www.moomoo.com/community/feed/113565503848454?is_recommendation=0&is_recommend_pos=1&futusource=news_headline_list

Donald Trump’s pro-cryptocurrency stance and his new team could significantly impact the crypto industry. Trump, who owns $7.6M in crypto, aims to make the U.S. the “Cryptocurrency Capital of the World.” Key members include:

• J.D. Vance: Pro-Bitcoin, holds $100K–$250K in BTC.
• Scott Bessent: Supports crypto as a symbol of freedom.
• Howard Lutnick: Owns hundreds of millions in BTC, compares it to gold.
• Michael Waltz: Advocates pro-crypto legislation.

Bitcoin may reach $100K–$120K amid growing institutional adoption and shifting market expectations.

Investing Updates: Investment Opportunities in US Stocks Ahead of Trump's Inauguration

URL: https://www.moomoo.com/community/feed/113549442678790?is_recommendation=0&is_recommend_pos=0&futusource=news_headline_list

Investors are optimistic about U.S. equities ahead of Trump’s inauguration, with seasonal trends, policy expectations, and corporate buybacks driving momentum. Goldman Sachs predicts a year-end S&P 500 rally to 6,200, with shifts from large-cap tech to small-cap and value stocks. Historical patterns favor gains during election years, with small-cap and cyclical stocks poised for growth. Key catalysts include AI, energy, and e-commerce sectors. The “January effect” and peak buyback activity may further boost markets.

Investing Updates : Portfolio Strategy

• I think a lot of people's portfolios are at all time high right now.
• So the question on many people's minds might be what's next to add? 😋

• For me, I will be continuing to adjust my portfolio ratios to the targeted 30/30/30/10 percentages. (See Portfolio link)
• As Crypto goes higher, I will gradually sell to realise gains and move the crypto ratio closer to 10%

• Imo, many SG-based financial influencers have recommended either SG Banks or REITs for local market investments. I've chosen REITs as a larger percentage of portfolio allocation because it fits my investing strategy and principles. I want to enjoy a bit along the way with dividends while riding on some capital gains.

• For overseas market, I will stick with VWRA and VUAA investments for exposure to U.S. If Trump really pushes the market higher for the coming years, these 2 ETFs should do well and they are Ireland-domiciled which can avoid estate tax complications.

• On earning activities, I've re-assigned more allocations to DeFi platforms throughout the year. I see the potential upcoming altcoin season as being bullish to the DeFi space.

• I'm pondering how I can make more side income e.g. starting casual YouTube channel with AI prompts, besides the ones I am currently using. Platform referrals have worked well and I like to thank all those who read my blog and used my referral codes 👍

• Congrats to all of us investing this year 💥

Investing Updates : Bitcoin Surges Towards $100,000: Who's Driving the Rally and What's Next

URL: https://www.moomoo.com/community/feed/bitcoin-surges-towards-100-000-who-s-driving-the-rally-113525701083142

Bitcoin is approaching the $100,000 milestone, fueled by a 130% YTD gain, positive news in the crypto sector, and increasing institutional investments. Key drivers include discussions of crypto policy in the U.S., a potential SEC leadership change, and a surge in Bitcoin ETF assets. Experts predict volatility, with potential corrections to $80,000, but remain bullish on long-term growth.

Investing Updates : BTC Price Targets

URL: https://www.moomoo.com/community/feed/113464869650441?is_recommendation=0&is_recommend_pos=0&futusource=news_headline_list

The Moomoo article discusses the next price target for Bitcoin, which is expected to hit $120,000, driven by increased institutional interest and a favorable macroeconomic environment. Factors like high inflation and dollar weakening contribute to Bitcoin’s appeal as a hedge asset. Recent regulatory progress and ETF approvals have also bolstered confidence in the cryptocurrency, with analysts projecting strong demand and potential for Bitcoin to reach new highs.

It feels like a real bull run has started for crypto. 

Will be claiming and selling altcoins along the way to adjust portfolio allocations.

100k by 2024 year end would be great 💪

Investing Updates : Trump Wins!

Investing Updates : X Empire Airdrop

My Thoughts:

Disappointed 😆

I did do the games one or twice per day for like 3 months I think.

Didn't donate any TON to the game though.

Entertainment Updates : HBO "Money Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery" Show

URL: https://www.forbes.com/sites/digital-assets/2024/10/08/who-is-peter-todd-the-man-named-by-hbo-as-bitcoins-mystery-creator-satoshi-nakamoto/

OpenAI:

The HBO documentary "Money Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery" has garnered mixed reviews from both the crypto community and the general audience.

Here's a summary of the feedback:

Show Overview

Directed by Cullen Hoback, the documentary dives into the origins of Bitcoin and attempts to uncover the identity of its mysterious creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. The film suggests that Bitcoin Core developer Peter Todd might be Satoshi.

Crypto Community Feedback

• Skepticism: Many in the crypto community remain skeptical about the documentary's claims.Prominent figures like Bitcoin author Eric Yakes and Coin Center's Neeraj Agrawal expressed doubts about the evidence presented.

• Mixed Reactions: While some appreciated the effort to explore Bitcoin's history and technology, others criticized the documentary for not providing conclusive proof.

Market Reaction

• Minimal Impact: The crypto market showed little reaction to the documentary.

  Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies like Ethereum and XRP remained relatively stable.

• Speculation: Despite the hype, the market did not see significant movements, and the documentary did not provide the definitive answers many were hoping for.

  
  

Overall, while the documentary sparked interest and speculation, it did not lead to any major revelations or market shifts. What are your thoughts on the documentary?

Investing Updates : Hamster Kombat Roadmap

URL: https://decrypt.co/251191/whats-next-hamster-kombat-after-airdrop-expanding-beyond-telegram

OpenAI

Here are five detailed points from the Decrypt article on the future of Hamster Kombat after its airdrop:

1. Game Concept and Popularity: Hamster Kombat is a tap-to-earn game on Telegram where players earn in-game coins by tapping. The game has gained significant popularity, amassing over 300 million players since its launch.

2. Airdrop on The Open Network (TON): The game recently launched an airdrop of its token on The Open Network (TON). Players can claim these tokens based on the coins they’ve earned in the game. This airdrop has driven a surge in player activity.

3. Expansion Beyond Telegram: Following the airdrop, the developers plan to expand the game beyond Telegram. This includes potential integration with other platforms and additional features to keep the game engaging and attract a broader audience.

4. Comparison to Notcoin: Hamster Kombat’s core concept is similar to Notcoin, another popular tap-to-earn game. However, Hamster Kombat offers richer game mechanics, such as simulating the role of a CEO of a crypto exchange, which adds depth to the gameplay.

5. Future Prospects and Player Engagement: The game’s future looks promising with plans for continuous updates and expansions. The developers aim to maintain high player engagement by introducing new features and possibly more airdrops, ensuring the game remains attractive to both existing and new players.

My Thoughts

• It's certainly unpredictable for Hamster Kombat from here onwards.

• Will still invest some of my time since it's quite fun.

• My referral https://t.me/hamster_Kombat_bot/start?startapp=kentId772562921

Investing Updates : Rocky Rabbit Airdrop

URL : https://rockyrabbit.io/

OpenAI

The recent Rocky Rabbit airdrop has generated a lot of buzz, especially due to its integration with a popular Telegram-based game on the TON blockchain. This tap-to-earn game allows users to earn in-game currency and cryptocurrency rewards by engaging in duels, upgrading virtual rabbits, and completing daily tasks. 

Feedback around the airdrop, which took place on September 23, 2024, has been mostly positive, especially due to the game’s significant growth, attracting over 25 million players in just a few months. Players have also been keen on the RabBitcoin (RBTC) token, which is expected to be listed on major exchanges like Binance and KuCoin, creating more opportunities for users to capitalize on their in-game efforts.

However, while the pre-market performance of the token has shown some volatility, with prices initially fluctuating between $0.001 to $0.005, its listing could provide further insight into its long-term value. The game’s high engagement rates and innovative referral system have contributed to its popularity, which could support its future in the crypto space.

Overall, the game's unique mix of gaming and crypto could ensure a promising future for RBTC, though success will heavily depend on continued user engagement and the reception of the token once fully listed.

My Thoughts

• Another popular crypto airdrop has landed. Got 600,000 tokens as shown.

• Had to pay 0.5 TON transaction fees. Internet criticised Rocky Rabbit for their "promise" of repaying this fee which didn't happen for many, including me. 

• I still feel good for this game. All these animals ; Hamster, Rabbit, related games etc are cute 😂. I think you have to manage your expectations with this genre. Enjoy the game, humor and treat profits as a plus.

Investing Updates : Hamster Kombat Airdrop

URL : https://hamsterkombatgame.io/

OpenAI

The Hamster Kombat airdrop, which took place in late September 2024, has garnered significant attention but received mixed feedback. While the airdrop was labeled as one of the largest in crypto history, only 43% of the users qualified, leading to some dissatisfaction. Over 131 million users were eligible, but 2.3 million accounts were banned due to cheating, contributing to the reduced eligibility.

Despite this, the overall reception from the community remains optimistic, particularly as Hamster Kombat continues to grow, boasting over 300 million users globally. The airdrop was seen as a reward for early supporters, with over 60 billion tokens distributed initially, and 15% of the total token supply set aside for future seasons. Analysts predict that the token could reach up to $0.05 by the end of 2024, driven by increasing adoption and upcoming exchange listings on major platforms like Binance and Bybit.

Looking ahead, Hamster Kombat aims to introduce new features, such as additional battle arenas, NFTs, and community-driven events, to maintain player engagement and expand its ecosystem. This continued development is expected to bolster the future of the game, especially as it integrates further into the Web3 space.

My Thoughts

• Rejected by Catizen airdrop 😂. Accepted by Hamster Kombat 😀.

• For 60 days of effort, I didn't win much tokens. To be fair, I didn't participate actively. Only doing in the morning, train rides, kids sleeping.

• I'm beginning to enjoy it the more I play. Will instil discipline to push harder in other promising apps as referenced in my referral page.

Investing Updates : SG Crypto Landscape

https://www.straitstimes.com/business/crypto-tie-ups-heat-up-action-in-singapore-in-areas-of-payment-and-stablecoin

OpenAI

The cryptocurrency landscape in Singapore is witnessing rapid growth through key partnerships and initiatives. Payment firm Triple-A has teamed up with DCS Card Centre, allowing users to top up with five digital currencies, including Bitcoin and Ether. Ride-hailing platforms Grab and Tada have integrated crypto payments. Meanwhile, Standard Chartered invested in One Trading, Circle partnered with Sony for stablecoin USDC, and TRM Labs joined forces with Tron and Tether to combat crypto-related crimes. Analytics platform Nansen also expanded its offerings by acquiring StakeWithUs.

My Thoughts

• Grab and Tada crypto payments for services are interesting developments. I wonder how's the transaction volumes so far.

• I think it will drive awareness and adoption greatly if crypto is available in Shopee & Lazada platforms, PayLah, etc. These are popular everyday services used by many.

• Generally, it's going the right direction in SG. Looks exciting from here onwards.

Investing Updates : Fed Rate Cut

https://www.moomoo.com/community/feed/113168822240037?is_recommendation=0&is_recommend_pos=1&futusource=news_headline_list

OpenAI

On September 18, 2024, the Federal Reserve announced a significant cut in its benchmark interest rate by 50 basis points, reducing the federal funds rate to a range of 4.75% to 5%. This marked the first rate cut since March 2020 and was a pivotal shift from the Fed’s recent focus on inflation control. The cut reflects the Fed’s confidence that inflation is under control and signals its efforts to protect the labor market amid signs of economic cooling.

Market Reaction:

- Stock Markets: Major stock indexes such as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq reacted positively, with both gaining following the announcement. Small-cap stocks led the rally, suggesting optimism among investors, particularly in sectors that are more sensitive to interest rates. However, the market also experienced some volatility, with Treasury yields fluctuating immediately after the decision.

- Economic Outlook: Fed Chair Jerome Powell highlighted the importance of balancing economic growth and inflation, stressing that the Fed would be cautious with future rate changes. He acknowledged that while inflation is nearing the Fed’s 2% target, reducing rates too quickly could risk inflation rising again. Powell also noted that the labor market remains robust, which supports the Fed’s confidence in making this rate adjustment.

The Fed hinted that more rate cuts are likely by the end of the year, though Powell emphasized a gradual approach going forward to avoid destabilising the economy. Investors remain hopeful, though cautious, about how these cuts will impact broader economic conditions, especially in housing and consumer lending.

My Thoughts

• Here we go, first Fed rate cut finally done 👏

• Positive reactions for both equities and crypto so far. Things such as SSB, T-Bills, Savings interest rates will start to come down soon. 

• If you are in 60s or retirement phase, best to lock in stable purchases now. If you are 40s like me, SG REIT ETFs have not reach all time highs yet. Some pullback is expected and it may be wise to put some when it happens.

LifeStyle Updates : Bets on U.S. Presidential Election in Polymarket

https://www.theblock.co/post/316455/polymarket-approaches-1-billion-in-bets-for-2024-presidential-election-winner

OpenAI

Polymarket, a decentralized prediction platform, has attracted nearly $900 million in bets for the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Democratic candidate Kamala Harris leads with a 50% chance of winning and $127 million in bets, while Republican Donald Trump closely follows with 49% and $144 million. The 2024 election has significantly boosted Polymarket's growth, with a record number of active traders and volume in August 2024. The platform's cumulative volume now stands at $1.75 billion as of September 2024.

My Thoughts

• Quit while You are Ahead. All the Best Gamblers do - Quote from Baltasar Gracian

• Enormous amount of money is being placed betting on U.S. elections. I think Polymarket ease of use and timely updates are quite attractive to bettors. 

• I've browsed through some of the top bettors' information on Polymarket. Can't figure out if they are your average joe, famous whales or public figures.